Real estate groups applauded the Senate’s vote on The Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act, which reins in rate hikes they said had stifled home sales in areas designated as flood-risk zones. The bill caps premium increases to 18 percent annually for primary residences.

It also repeals the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s authority to increase premium rates when a home is sold or a new flood map is created. Recent homebuyers who experienced rate hikes will get refunds.